Developments aim to keeping business local, natives home

Finishing touches: B’ville waterfront development to be completed this summer

First there was Paper Mill Island. Then the village focused on the Sergei Yevich Trail, followed by the pedestrian walkways along River and Water streets. Now, Baldwinsville’s Waterfront Revitalization Plan will come full circle as construction on Village Square is completed this summer.

In addition, the Southshore East trail, a final route of the four trails connecting each quarter of the village, will also be completed this summer. Residents and visitors, alike, can walk or bike to the center of Baldwinsville via the Sergei Yevich Trail from the northeastern end, River Street’s pedestrian path at the northwestern end and the Southshore West and Southshore East trails in the southern portion of the village.

“Village Square is the connecting node – Yevich ends there, northshore ties into village square, Southshore West and Southshore East tie together at Route 48 and there is also the Paper Mill Island trail. All four trails come together there – it’s like the spokes of a wheel meeting,” said Village Engineer Tim Baker.

Once known for its mills more than its beauty, the village has changed its image, thanks in part to the development, drawing thousands of villagers and tourists to its center during summer weekends, and nearly as many during winter weekend events.

While demolition of the old Harrington Firehouse took place nearly five years ago, Village Square construction started last spring. With the cooperative weather, progress has been made all season long including the most recent addition of LED lighting, which was donated by Ephesus, a local company, and aptly named the B’ville Lite.

“The main work is done,” Baker said, adding there is top soil to spread, trees and grass to plant, flower bed work and sidewalks to install. “We’re in the landscaping phase of it.”